Star Platforms Delivers Rapid Access Solution to Support University Art Installation
Star Platforms, a leading powered access specialist, responded swiftly to an urgent hire request from a Loughborough University student, delivering a low-level access platform within 48 hours to support the installation of a final-year sculpture ahead of a key end-of-degree exhibition.
The request came in on a Friday afternoon after the university’s usual supplier was unable to fulfil the requirement. Understanding the time-sensitive nature of the project, Star Platforms arranged the rapid delivery of a Power Tower Nano SP push-around vertical (PAV) access platform, ensuring it arrived at the School of Design & Creative Arts ready for use on Monday morning.
Compact and easy to manoeuvre, the Nano SP provides a maximum working height of 4.5 metres and a safe platform capacity of 200kg, offering a practical and safe solution for indoor tasks requiring low-level access. Its zero turning radius and self-propelled design make it ideal for navigating tight spaces like galleries and studios.
The equipment was used by student Rebecca Matthews to safely adjust and position her large-scale artwork within the Fine Art Gallery, forming part of her final assessment and public exhibition. Working alongside Beacon Commercial Solutions, who installed a lifting eye to the structural beam, Rebecca was able to complete the installation with precision and confidence.
Artist, Rebecca Matthews, commented: “The platform completely changed my approach to how I installed the artwork. It gave me the freedom to make adjustments safely and independently, which was crucial given the scale and ceramic elements of the piece. It’s inspired me to explore a new way of working and constructing pieces. I’m grateful to Star Platforms for providing the platform; their support meant I could realise the installation exactly as I’d envisioned it.”
Steve Simmons, Joint Managing Director at Star Platforms, added: “This project is a great example of how our team goes above and beyond to meet customer needs, even at short notice. We were pleased to support a creative, educational project like this and to see our equipment in use in such an inspiring environment.”
Photographs captured during the project showcase both the technical setup and the final artistic touches, demonstrating how powered access plays a vital role in creative and educational settings as well as more traditional industries.
Robert Chandler, Principal Building Surveyor, Loughborough University, said: “The entire process was arranged with ease, delivery was prompt, and communication was clear and concise throughout. That level of service is rare in the hire industry, where centralised desks can often make things more difficult.”
He continued: “Star Platforms provided a responsive, reliable service with a personal approach, which is something we really value at the University. We found the equipment so useful that we extended the hire to support the ongoing refurbishment of the School. I would have no hesitation in recommending them.”
With a flexible three-week hire in place, Star Platforms ensured the student had the time and equipment needed to complete the installation with confidence. The project highlights Star Platforms’ responsiveness and service-led approach, supporting everything from one-off specialist projects to ongoing requirements across a broad range of sectors, including: construction, facilities management, education, and the arts among others.
For more information about Star Platforms and its services, please visit www.starplatforms.co.uk.
